Crema Catalana
SpanishDessert

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Crema Catalana is one of the oldest desserts in Europe, originating from the Catalonia region of Spain. This silky custard is traditionally served on Saint Joseph's Day but is enjoyed year-round. The dessert features a rich, creamy base infused with fresh citrus zest and warming cinnamon, topped with a perfectly caramelized sugar layer that cracks beautifully with each spoonful. Unlike its French cousin crème brûlée, Crema Catalana is thickened with cornstarch rather than baked in a water bath, resulting in a lighter, more delicate texture. The combination of velvety custard and crispy caramel creates an irresistible contrast that has made this dessert a beloved classic throughout Spain and beyond.

Instructions

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  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk with cinnamon sticks, lemon zest, and orange zest. Heat over medium heat until it just begins to simmer, then remove from heat and let steep for 15 minutes.

  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks and 100g of sugar until pale and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. Add the cornstarch and whisk until smooth with no lumps remaining.

  3. Remove the cinnamon sticks and citrus zest from the milk. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs.

  4. Pour the tempered egg mixture back into the saucepan with the remaining milk, whisking continuously. Cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of the spoon, about 8-10 minutes. Do not let it boil.

  5. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure a smooth texture.

  6. Divide the custard evenly among 6 shallow ramekins or traditional cazuelas. Let cool to room temperature, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight until fully set.

  7. Just before serving, sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of sugar evenly over the surface of each custard. Using a kitchen torch, caramelize the sugar until golden brown and bubbling. Alternatively, place under a hot broiler for 1-2 minutes, watching carefully.

  8. Let the caramelized sugar harden for 1-2 minutes before serving. The sugar should crack easily when tapped with a spoon.

Crema Catalana

4.7 (36)

A classic Catalan custard dessert with a caramelized sugar crust, flavored with cinnamon and citrus zest. This creamy, elegant treat is the perfect ending to any Spanish meal.

medium
45 min
6 servings

Ingredients

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Custard Base

  • 4 cups milk, whole milk preferred
  • 6 pieces eggs, yolks only, separated
  • 3 tablespoons flour, cornstarch
  • 100 grams honey, granulated sugar substitute

Aromatics

  • 2 pieces cinnamon, whole sticks
  • 1 pieces lemon, zest only
  • 1 pieces orange, zest only

Flavoring

  • 1 teaspoons vanilla-extract

Topping

  • 6 tablespoons honey, granulated sugar for topping

Chef Tips

expert advice
For the best flavor, use fresh citrus zest rather than dried.
The traditional method uses a hot iron tool called a "ferro de cremar" to caramelize the sugar, but a kitchen torch works perfectly.
Make sure your custard is very cold before caramelizing the sugar topping - this prevents the custard from melting.
If you don't have a torch or broiler, you can sprinkle the sugar and place the ramekins on a bed of ice while using a torch for extra protection.
For a more intense citrus flavor, add a small piece of orange peel to the milk while heating.
The custard base can be made up to 2 days in advance, but caramelize the sugar just before serving for the best texture.
If making ahead, keep the sugar separate and caramelize just before serving.
Some Spanish cooks add a splash of anise liqueur for an authentic touch.
For perfectly smooth custard, ensure you strain it before pouring into ramekins.